Plymouth Philharmonic Choir gave a glowing performance during their recent concert not least because of the glorious, hot summer weather. However, it was the rosy glow on the faces of audience members as they delighted in John Rutter’s suite of folk songs in The Sprig of Thyme that was enchanting to see. These songs, passed down from generation to generation, tell timeless stories of people’s lives and all the complexities, especially where love is concerned. The lilting, sweet melodies were a revelation to those who had never heard the music before and stirred long forgotten memories for others.
Heart-warming
The most heart-warming moment of the afternoon was the glow of pride on the faces of the parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters of the children from the Fletewood School who sang in the performance of Andrew Carter’s Benedicite.
Rapturous
They received rapturous applause from the audience and the Plymouth Philharmonic Choir. Not only were the children a great credit to their families, but also to the staff and headteacher, Rachel Gray, who have worked so hard with the children, aged between seven and eleven, preparing them for this special event.
Awe and wonder
Irina Kosogova who accompanied the choir, played exquisitely. The moods of the pieces in the Benedicite were perfectly encapsulated by the additional musical effects created by the organ, played by Nick Danks, that gave the impression of ice crystals and, in another piece, of the awe and wonder of looking out to space.
Director of Music, Christopher Fletcher made an inspired decision in selecting this programme as it enabled people of all ages and levels of ability to come together and enjoy beautiful music. The choir gave a first-rate performance and the audience were delighted to hear pieces showcasing one or two voice parts as well as the whole choir ensemble.
Every last drop of emotion
Christopher’s exceptional musical talent ensured that every last drop of emotion was poured out into the performance. If food for the soul were not enough, the concert was topped off with generous amounts of clotted cream on delicious home-made scones, as a cream tea was served as the finale to a fabulous afternoon.
If you missed this concert then there is still an opportunity to hear the choir perform some of the music from the concert at 6pm on Friday 30 June at The Garden House, Buckland Monachorum
If you are interested in joining the choir please contact the Membership Secretary, Pat Brodie (01752 330337 pat.brodie@outlook.com). Rehearsals start on Thursday 7 September at the Meade King Hall, Plymouth College. Details about the choir’s next concert, Handel’s Samson on Saturday 25 November and the Choral Workshop being led by John Hobbs on Saturday 14 October, are available on the choir’s website (plymouthphilchoir.org).
Mary Johnson
top image: Children from Fletewood School Choir receiving rapturous applause led by Conductor Christopher Fletcher. Courtesy of Howard Perks.
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